Finding a reliable spot for traditional Chinese cuisine in the Beaverton area often leads locals and visitors alike to a specific destination on Walker Road. Known for its extensive dim sum selection and classic Cantonese-style dishes, this restaurant has become a staple for those seeking authentic flavors in a casual setting. Whether you are planning a weekend family brunch or a quick weekday lunch, having the right information about the location, menu, and contact details is essential for a smooth experience. This guide addresses everything you need to know before you visit, from the specific address to the must-try items on the menu.
Location and Contact Information
The restaurant is situated at 14125 S.W. Walker Road, Beaverton, OR 97005. This location is conveniently positioned near the intersection of Walker Road and Murray Boulevard, making it easily accessible for residents of both Beaverton and Tigard. It is located in a shopping plaza that offers ample parking for guests, which is particularly helpful during the busy weekend hours. For those using public transportation or navigating from nearby landmarks like the Nike World Headquarters or the Tualatin Hills Nature Park, the restaurant is a well-known fixture in the local community.
To reach the staff for inquiries regarding reservations, large group bookings, or takeout orders, you can call them directly at (503) 641-4153. Calling ahead is often recommended, especially during the busy weekend dim sum hours when wait times can increase significantly. The staff can also provide information on their current hours of operation and any daily specials that might not be listed on the standard menu.
Exploring the Menu: Dim Sum Specialties
The primary draw for many visitors is the traditional dim sum service. Dim sum, which literally translates to “touch the heart,” consists of small, bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates. This style of dining is designed for sharing and allows guests to sample a wide variety of flavors and textures in a single meal. While many modern restaurants have moved toward a menu-based ordering system, the spirit of variety remains central to the experience here.
Must-Try Dim Sum Items
- Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings): These are often considered the benchmark of a good dim sum chef. The dumplings feature a translucent, pleated skin made from wheat and tapioca starch, filled with succulent, seasoned shrimp.
- Siu Mai (Pork and Shrimp Dumplings): These open-faced dumplings are packed with a mixture of ground pork and shrimp, often topped with a small garnish of orange roe or a single pea for color and flavor.
- Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns): A favorite for all ages, these buns come in two varieties. The steamed version is snow-white and pillowy, while the baked version has a shiny, slightly sweet glaze. Both are filled with savory, honey-roasted barbecue pork.
- Cheong Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls): These long, slippery rolls are made from steamed rice flour sheets. They can be filled with shrimp, beef, or sweet BBQ pork and are typically served with a side of sweetened soy sauce.
- Ham Sui Gok (Fried Glutinous Rice Dumplings): These have a crispy, golden-brown exterior with a slightly chewy texture, filled with a savory mix of pork and vegetables.
Traditional Tea Service
No dim sum meal is complete without tea, a practice known as Yum Cha. The restaurant typically offers several varieties of tea, including Jasmine, Chrysanthemum, and Oolong. In traditional etiquette, it is customary to pour tea for others at your table before filling your own cup. If the teapot runs out of water, simply leave the lid slightly ajar or turned upside down to signal to the server that a refill is needed.
Popular Lunch and Dinner Entrees
While dim sum is the star of the show during the day, the restaurant also offers a comprehensive menu for lunch and dinner. These dishes are prepared in the traditional Cantonese style, emphasizing fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. The portions are typically generous, making them ideal for family-style dining where everyone can try a bit of everything.
Classic Poultry and Beef Dishes
For those looking for hearty meat dishes, the menu includes favorites like General Tso’s Chicken, which features crispy pieces of chicken tossed in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. Mongolian Beef is another popular choice, known for its tender slices of beef sautéed with green onions and ginger in a savory brown sauce. If you prefer something more traditional, the Roast Duck is often praised for its crispy skin and flavorful meat.
Seafood and Vegetable Options
Given the restaurant’s focus on Cantonese cuisine, seafood plays a prominent role. The Honey Walnut Shrimp is a crowd-pleaser, featuring large, crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy sauce and topped with candied walnuts. For a lighter option, the Steamed Whole Fish with ginger and scallions showcases the freshness of the ingredients. Vegetable lovers should not miss the Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli), which is typically blanched and served with a rich oyster sauce, providing a perfect crunchy accompaniment to the heavier dishes.
Planning Your Visit: Hours and Tips
To make the most of your dining experience, it is helpful to plan around the restaurant’s peak times and special offerings. The restaurant is generally open daily, typically closing around 9:00 PM. However, the dim sum service is most active during the morning and mid-afternoon.
Happy Hour and Specials
One of the best-kept secrets for local diners is the afternoon happy hour. In the past, the restaurant has offered significant discounts, such as 1/2 off dim sum, between the hours of 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM on certain weekdays. This is an excellent time to visit if you want to enjoy a variety of plates at a lower price point. It is highly recommended to call (503) 641-4153 to verify if these specials are currently running, as they can be subject to change based on the day of the week or seasonal promotions.
Best Times to Avoid Crowds
If you prefer a quieter dining environment, consider visiting on a weekday morning. Weekends, especially Sunday mornings, are the busiest times for dim sum as families gather for traditional brunch. During these peak hours, you may encounter a wait, but the bustling atmosphere is part of the authentic experience. For a faster experience, the restaurant also offers efficient takeout services, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dumplings and entrees from the comfort of your home.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
When you arrive, you will find a casual and welcoming environment. Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind:
- Parking: The parking lot in the shopping plaza is shared with other businesses, but there is usually plenty of space available. During peak weekend hours, you may need to park slightly further away from the entrance.
- Payment Methods: The restaurant typically accepts major credit cards, making it convenient for modern diners. However, it is always a good idea to have a small amount of cash on hand for tips or smaller orders.
- Group Dining: The large circular tables equipped with “Lazy Susans” are perfect for groups of six or more. This allows everyone to easily share the dishes as they are brought to the table.
- Reservations: While walk-ins are common, calling ahead for a reservation is a smart move if you have a group larger than four people, especially on weekends.
Conclusion
Whether you are a long-time fan of dim sum or are looking to try it for the first time, the Chinatown Restaurant in Beaverton provides a reliable and authentic experience. With its convenient location on SW Walker Road and an extensive menu that caters to all tastes, it remains a pillar of the local dining scene in Oregon. By using the contact information and tips provided in this guide, you can ensure your next visit is both delicious and stress-free. We hope this information helps you enjoy a wonderful meal. For more helpful guides on local attractions, dining tips, and everyday solutions, feel free to explore our other articles.